13 Reasons We’re So Stinkin’ Excited for Warm Weather in Philly

Yoga on the Pier at Race Street Pier | Photo by Matt Stanley

Newsflash: We’ve only got nine more days of winter, people! Spring is a comin’ — on March 20th, to be exact — and I, for one, could not be more excited for the warm weather it’ll bring with it. Just about every single day of this dreadful season we call winter, I say to anyone who will listen, “If we lived somewhere warm, we could be doing [insert fun outdoor activity here] right now. Ughhh, winter!” And I’m sure I’m not alone.

But with spring headed our way, soon we’ll all be able to start checking things off the long list of activities we’ve been talking about wanting to do for months, from hiking in the Wissahickon to playing frisbee down the Shore to picnicking anywhere we can lay a blanket down.

Below, 13 reasons we here in Be Well Philly Land are so freakin’ excited for warm weather in Philly. 

Got anything to add to the list? Tell us in the comments.

1. Farmers’ markets galore

Who needs an over-air-conditioned, uncomfortably crowded grocery store when you can get everything you need — samples included — at the farmers’ market? Sure, some markets go year-round, but during warmer months, when it’s much more appealing to shop al fresco, the options abound, with plenty of farmers’ markets to choose from.

2. Loads of outdoor fitness classes

We already know Yoga on the Pier is going to be bigger and better than ever this year — they’re offering a whopping 11 free outdoor yoga classes each week! And if last year’s endless list of outdoor fitness is any indication, loads more fitness classes are sure to come.

3. Bike rides along the Schuylkill and Kelly Drive

Just think of all the leisurely bike rides ahead, when it’ll be so warm you’ll actually want the wind to blow in your hair.

4. And bike rides on city streets, too.

Speaking of bike rides, I have a confession to make: I am a fair-weather biker, not in the least bit hardcore. So I am so freakin’ excited to ditch SEPTA for my saddle to get, well, everywhere during these warmer months. Who’s with me?

5. Hiking in the Wissahickon (and, well, anywhere with trees, really)

There is no better way to spend a warm, sunny, Philly day than hiking in the Wissahickon. All you need to have an awesome time is a pair of sneakers, a friend, a few sandwiches — you know, made with your farm-fresh ingredients from the farmers’ market — and you’re good to go. Want even more hiking options? Check out our hiking guide.

6. Day trips to the Shore

What’s better than playing frisbee on the beach and calling it a workout? Nothing. There is nothing better. If you want to get even sweatier, we’ve got a list of our favorite Shore running routes.

7. Sun-dappled trail runs

In exciting news, the Fairmount Park Conservancy is bringing back their much-loved guided trail-running series just in time for spring. (It kicks off on March 14th). But if you can’t make it to any of their runs, not to worry: We’ve got tons of awesome Philly running trails for you to try out on your own this spring.

8. Greenery

Remember when trees had leaves on them, and those green leaves shaded you from the sun — because there was sun? Soon, my friend, those days will return.

9. Picnicking

Raise your hand if you ate a sad desk lunch today? Me, too. But no more: Picnic season is on its way, and soon you’ll be able to eat your lunch on a blanket in Rittenhouse Square (or on the closest patch of grass you can find) with the sun shining down on you and no florescent lighting in sight. Yes, please!

10. Be Well Philly Boot Camp

We can’t write a list of things that we’re excited to do come warm-weather season without mentioning Be Well Philly Boot Camp, which we are over-the-moon pumped about. The big day is June 6th! (Get your early-bird ticket here, so you can have one more thing to be excited about, too.)

11. Grilling

Two words: Grilled corn. Fresh from the farmers’ market, obviously. ‘Nuff said.

12. The Broad Street Run

Whether you’re running Broad Street for the first or millionth time or planning to cheer on your pals from the sidelines, the Broad Street Run is one of those springtime rites of passage that gets just about everyone in Philly excited. Including us! Psst: If you’re training, we’ve got tons of tips right this way.

13. Ice cream

Being able to eat a scoop of ice cream outdoors and actually enjoy it might just be the most exciting thing about warm weather. And last summer, we discovered that a bunch of Philly ice cream shops offer totally drool-worthy vegan ice creams, usually made with coconut milk. So this year, I’m looking forward to eating my fair share of vegan Thai iced tea ice cream, thankyouverymuch.

» What warm-weather activities are you excited for this year? Tell us in the comments! 

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